Devil's Backbone
Central CascadesBest Jul–Sep
Remote ridgeline traverse connecting alpine peaks in the Entiat Mountains with continuous eastern Cascade panoramas.
About This Trail
Devil's Backbone traces a high ridge in the Entiat Mountains between Crescent Hill and Windy Saddle, connecting a string of named peaks including Stormy Mountain and Angle Peak across 11.7 miles of point-to-point terrain. The route gains over 4,300 feet and tops out at 7,168 feet, following a multi-use trail open to both hikers and mountain bikers. The ridge walking is open and exposed, with long sightlines in every direction across the eastern Cascades.
Stormy Mountain, just 1.3 miles from the Crescent Hill trailhead, makes a good short objective with big views for less effort. The full traverse to Angle Peak and beyond rewards with a day of continuous ridgeline travel through alpine meadows and scattered subalpine fir. A loop option returns via the Lake Creek Trail, though this adds significant distance and requires navigating back to the starting trailhead.
Access roads are the main challenge. Shady Pass Road on the western approach can hold snow drifts on north-facing aspects well into June. The eastern approach from the Entiat River side clears earlier. Both routes require high-clearance vehicles. The area sees very light use, with most trip reports noting complete solitude. This is remote country with no services or cell coverage.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Access roads hold snow until June, especially Shady Pass Road on north aspects. The Entiat River approach clears earlier. Moderate bugs in July on the lower slopes. Ridge is snow-free by mid-July most years. Very little recent trail maintenance.
Scorecard
One of the least-visited trails in the Central Cascades. Only 15 trip reports total. Expect complete solitude.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Fully exposed ridge with lightning risk in storms
- No water sources along the ridge
- Access roads snow-blocked into June
- Remote area with no cell coverage or services
Getting There
High-clearance vehicle recommended
Two trailhead options: Crescent Hill (west, via Shady Pass Road) or Windy Saddle (east). Both require high-clearance vehicles. Shady Pass Road holds snow into June on north aspects.
Western approach via Shady Pass Road to Crescent Hill trailhead. Eastern approach from the Entiat River side via forest roads. Both require high clearance. Point-to-point requires car shuttle.
Carry all water needed for the full traverse. No reliable sources along the ridge. Start early for the full traverse to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
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